Most people start driving on their own when they turn 16. It’s fun, exciting and can open up a whole new world of possibilities for teens. However, there are a few facts about teen drivers that everyone should know.
First, they are the age group that is involved in the most deadly accidents. When considering the amount of vehicle miles driven, studies have found that drivers who are between 16 years old and 19 years old are about three times as likely to be involved in deadly wrecks as those who are 20 years old or older.
When looking at serious crashes that are caused by teens drivers, researchers found three mistakes cause about 50 percent of the crashes. First, teens failed to scan the road and look for hazards. Second, they tended to drive faster than conditions allowed. Finally, they were frequently distracted behind the wheel.
Overall, experts have noted that many teens will finish the learning period, pass the tests and be given their driver’s licenses even though they usually lack many of the skills needed to drive safely. That leads to an incredibly high rate of driver mistakes. Skills can be learned in time, but teens are going to cause many accidents and leave numerous deaths and injuries in their wake.
Have you been hit by a teen driver and seriously injured? Have you lost a loved one in an accident? There is clearly a serious risk, and, if you have, you need to know what rights you may have to compensation. A Quinn Law Firm personal injury attorney can provide guidance.
Source: Teen Driver Source, “Basic Facts About Teen Crashes,” accessed April 20, 2017
